Submit your Article

The Nepal Oil Corporation Ltd (NOC), the sole importer and distributor of petroleum products, determines the maximum retail prices of fuels depending on a number of variables, including the price of crude oil in the world market, the cost of transportation, taxes, customs fees, exchange rates, and operational costs. The NOC has now started the Auto Fuel Pricing System and the cost of petroleum products have dropped as a result. Evana Manandhar of ApEx talked to Puskar Karki, deputy director and co-spokesperson of the NOC, to find out how this change will affect us in the long run. Excerpts:

What is the Auto Fuel Pricing System?

The Auto Fuel Pricing System refers to the  process by which the prices of vehicle fuels such as petrol and diesel are decided and regulated based on the tariff it receives from its sole supplier, the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). It encompasses a variety of issues and stakeholders, including government agencies, oil firms, and market dynamics.

Every 15 days, we receive a new price from IOC, and we base our price on that, including taxes and other fees. The 2.5 percent profit margin has been lowered to two percent and we have kept no profit on LPG. If the IOC fluctuates the price, we will proceed accordingly.

How is it different from the previous system?

According to the previous system, the government, or the NOC had the authority to adjust the price of petroleum products any time. The adjustment of the price need not be in any pattern or ratio. But with the auto pricing system, the price will be adjusted as per the international market price.

Why did NOC introduce this system?

The NOC introduced the auto fuel pricing system to improve the transparency and consistency of petroleum product pricing in Nepal. Prior to the launch of this system, petroleum products’ prices in Nepal were governed directly by the government. It was up to the government if it wanted to charge a higher price or a lower price. But now, the government or the NOC can’t do so. We have to stick to the international market.

The approach improves transparency in fuel pricing by taking into account the numerous cost components and market factors that influence the final price. It explains how fuel prices are computed and offers customers and stakeholders a clear reason for any price change.

The price of petroleum products has now decreased with the launch of the auto pricing system. Will this trend continue? Will this help the public?

Around five months ago, the price of petrol was Rs 199 and it has dropped to Rs 165. The price of diesel has come down to Rs 145. As international prices have fallen, the price of petroleum products in Nepal has also fallen, which is good for us and the public. 

I can’t guarantee that the price will fall down every time as it will be decided by the international market. But this system will definitely help the public. Inflation is largely determined by the price of petroleum products and once it is reduced, other financial pressures will ease too. 

Will the IOC allow us to continue this system for a long time?

The IOC has nothing to do in the matter. Though we buy petroleum products from IOC only, it’s up to us on which platform will build our pricing system in Nepal. So this system will continue as long as the public extends its support. They should now understand that if there is a price hike, it’s not because of the NOC but the global market.

After the general elections held in November last year, the CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Center) came together to form a coalition government. But the partnership was short-lived, as the two parties fell out over the presidential nominee. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal formed a new coalition with the Nepali Congress, consigning the UML to the opposition benches. On Tuesday, UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli spoke in length with Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Akhanda Bhandari and Sambhu Kattel of Annapurna Media Network. Excerpts:

Is the CPN-UML playing an effective role as an opposition?

The CPN-UML is the only party which has a clear vision and mission of nation-building. There has been sufficient discussion on ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ which is and should be the destination of Nepal. The UML has always been clear about this destination and the route to get there. We are also the only party which has a clear position on internal issues such as political, economic and social policies, as well as matters relating to maintaining the external relations. Keeping the welfare of the people and nation at the forefront, we will and have been raising these issues in parliament and streets. So, from this point of view, our role as an opposition remains effective and impactful. We are also playing a vital role to make the government accountable on national issues.

What is your take regarding the government’s anti-corruption initiative?

Selective opening of some corruption files is nothing but a political stunt. The government’s corruption drive is aimed at terrorizing and attacking political opponents. This is not a genuine anti-corruption initiative. The only positive thing is that if more corruption files are opened, there will be public pressure to investigate all corruption scandals, which means those who have evaded justice because of power and position will be prosecuted.   

You have raised the issue of alleged corruption that took place in the Maoist cantonments following the 2006 peace agreement,  could you please elaborate on it?

There have been financial misappropriations in the cantonment. Initially, the Maoist claimed that they had around 34,000 combatants, but the United Nations Mission in Nepal verified only 19,000. Approximately 1,300 combatants were integrated into the national army. But in the initial days, the Maoist leadership took the allowance for all the combatants they claimed they had. Today, the Maoist party-led government is talking about probing corruption scandals, but it has shown any initiative to investigate the corruption that took place in the management of Maoist cantonments. 

When you were in the government, you formed a panel to investigate the Lalita Niswas land grab case, but you didn’t initiate any probe into alleged cantonment corruption. Why?

I was not in a position of taking such a decision from the Cabinet at the time. Yes, I was the prime minister but the party [the erstwhile Nepal Communist Party (NCP) was, in a way, run by the Maoist factions. Later, they left the party.

Is there a chance of the case being investigated in the coming days?

The key factor is public opinion. What will the public say? The lone effort from my party is insufficient. But we believe that there should be impartial investigations into all corruption cases. There shouldn’t be a selective approach like today. Also, I would like to emphasize that it was my government that had started the investigation into Lalita Niwas land grab case.

You oppose Maoist Chair Dahal now, but you and your party did support him as a prime minister.

I took such a decision in order to correct the devastating course of national politics, not the course of our party. But the Maoists did not feel comfortable collaborating with us. So, they decided to part ways with the UML.

Do you think the current corruption investigation is aimed at the main opposition party?

Yes, it is targeted at us, but it will go in vain. Once again, I would like to stress that whoever is involved in corruption must be investigated. 

Let’s talk about the intra-party issue. You introduced the 70 years age limit for the party leader through statutory changes, which recently omitted. What is the reason?  

The provision was omitted because the party deemed it unnecessary. No other parties have such a provision, but the UML decided to put it to the test. We wanted to see whether it could be useful in our party’s context. We removed the age limit after listening to the voice of our colleagues. I can assure you that the decision has not caused any damage to the party. 

But there are talks that by removing the age limit, you want to stay in party leadership for an indefinite period.

I am always seeking an exit from the main leadership of the party. But if some individuals think that they would feel more comfortable had I not been the chairman of the UML, that is a different issue entirely. There is no need to comment on it because it was I who had introduced the age limit provision and it was removed as requested by the party colleagues.

Are there any chances of Bam Dev Gautam returning to the UML?  What position is he likely to get?

We should not focus on the issue of position. Everyone, everywhere is seeking a position and money, this is spoiling the environment. People should be free from money and position.

How do you see the emergence of new parties like the Rastriya Swatantra Party?

The people who are in the party leadership do not have political backgrounds. They are new to politics, without old people as members. So they are picking young people as parliamentarians and in other party departments. They are yet to be tested and their ideology is unclear. 

Do you think new parties pose a challenge to old parties like the UML?  

I don’t consider the new parties as a challenge. They may win some seats, but they are yet to have a robust party structure. They may form committees from the center right down to the grassroots level, but it won’t be a big deal. It is just a process of forming a party. They are criticizing the traditional political parties and their leaders now, but they don’t have anything that they can call it an accomplishment. They have no history and no ideology. But that is not to say that our party is intolerant towards new parties. 

After the election,the UML launched a grassroots campaign to rally supporters. How effectively was the mission, and is it true that the party members have gone down?

It is just a rumor spread by our detractors. The impact of mission grassroots has been very effective, and this will reflect in the result of 2027 general elections. 

You took the leadership to issue a new political map of Nepal by incorporating the disputed territories of Kalapani, Lipulek and Limiyadhura, but there has not been any progress in talks with India. What is your take on it?

We can get our land if we move ahead with substantive talks. The boundary issue should not be blown up unnecessarily and out of proportion by making it a matter of victory and defeat.

Akhanda Bharat and Greater Nepal have found prominence in recent times, how do you see it?

We should not engage in such sentimental and short-lived populist agenda. It will just increase tensions.

How do you rate the performance of the present government in maintaining international relations?   

The government has failed to conduct its foreign policy, there is a mess and there is imbalance. This government is just signing documents prepared elsewhere. We should always raise genuine issues including that of boundaries. 

Of late, there are debates that Nepal should abandon its non-alignment policy. What is your view on this?

This is an irresponsible idea. People who are saying such a thing do not understand Nepal’s geopolitics and are unaware about Nepal’s comprehensive welfare. We should remain neutral and we should not join any military blocs. 

Park Tae-Young is newly appointed Ambassador of South Korea to Nepal. He is currently busy meeting political leaders, government officials and representatives from other sectors of Nepali society. Park recently visited the office of Annapurna Media Network and interacted with the AMN team on wide-range of bilateral issues. Excerpts:

What is your view on Nepal-South Korea relationship?

Very soon, we are completing 50 years of the establishment of bilateral relations. Due to our strong relations, we have collaborated closely in various areas. As we commemorate this momentous occasion, I am contemplating how we can honor and celebrate the friendship between Nepal and South Korea.

How do you find the relationship between Nepal and Korea at a people-to-people level?

Having taken up my position in Nepal just 50 days ago, I have been actively engaging with government agencies to strengthen bilateral ties. I am focused on fostering relations at the people’s level which involves meeting and connecting with diverse individuals. During my interactions, I had the opportunity to meet numerous individuals with connections to Korea, including businessmen who have relatives there. The Employment Permit System (EPS) has undeniably played a significant role in fostering the relationship between Nepal and South Korea at the people’s level. At present, there are approximately 40,000 Nepalis employed in South Korea, and the interest in working there continues to grow. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, we were seeing over 40,000 South Korean tourists visiting Nepal annually. The South Korean people are attracted to Nepal’s natural scenery and find visiting Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, particularly appealing. It is noteworthy that there is a balanced flow of people between the two countries. The relationship is characterized by mutual harmony and respect, rather than being one-sided. Furthermore, numerous development programs contribute to the strengthening of bilateral ties.

What initiatives are being undertaken to attract Korean investors to Nepal?

Recognizing the significance of economic cooperation in strengthening bilateral relations, we are actively pursuing initiatives to attract Korean investors to Nepal. South Korea currently holds the fourth position in terms of foreign direct investment in Nepal. Samsung’s television assembly plant is the recent example of South Korean investment in Nepal. It seems South Korean multinationals are eager to invest in Nepal.

In which sector of Nepal are Korean investors particularly interested in?

Korean investors have shown a strong interest in Nepal’s hydropower sector. They recognize that Nepal possesses the second richest water resources in the world. Currently, two hydropower projects with South Korean investment have been completed, while the construction of the Upper Trishuli-1 Hydropower Project (216 MW) is underway and expected to begin generating electricity in 2027. These ventures could significantly contribute to Nepal’s electricity sector. Moreover, Korean companies are also in the construction of transmission lines. In this regard, coordination efforts are being made with the Ministry of Energy and Nepal Electricity Authority. It is not only the larger multinational companies that we seek to attract; we also encourage medium-sized companies to invest in Nepal. I am committed to taking the necessary initiatives to facilitate such investments.

Hi-Mo, a company with South Korean investment, has been producing wigs in Nepal for the past five years. The company employs over 600 Nepali women and exports wigs to South Korea and Japan. Nepal boasts a strong workforce and benefits from its strategic location, situated between two of the world’s most populous countries. This advantageous position creates a conducive industrial environment in Nepal. As investors primarily seek profitability, we are actively collaborating with Nepali government agencies to ensure that foreign investors receive the same facilities and returns as their Nepali counterparts.

How would you evaluate the role of the Nepali government in attracting foreign investment?

The Nepali government is making concerted efforts in this regard. We, too, are making efforts from our side. However, it is crucial for Nepal to effectively communicate to potential investors that it offers a conducive business environment and promising returns on investment.

What type of workforce is essential for the development of a country?

A competent and skilled workforce is crucial for the development of any country. A notable example is South Korea, which had limited natural resources compared to Nepal but succeeded in its development journey due to its abundant labor force. The significant contribution of a skilled workforce played a key role in South Korea’s progress. Similarly, observing the investments made by Nepali citizens in the education of their children, I am optimistic that Nepal is on the path to cultivating an educated workforce. Vocational skill training is being provided in Butwal with the support of the South Korean government. We are also prepared to organize similar training programs in the Madhes and Gandaki provinces. My aspiration is to establish vocational training centers with South Korean support across all seven provinces of Nepal.

In terms of business environment, how do you perceive the situation in Nepal?

Nepal is ranked relatively low, currently placed 94th among countries worldwide. It indicates that there is room for improvement, not just in Nepal but also across South Asia. In the early days, South Korea faced challenges due to a lack of coordination and harmonious relations between employees and businessmen. It is essential for the Nepali government to listen to the voices of the private sector and foster a collaborative environment. By working in coordination, both the government and the private sector can contribute to improving the overall situation and creating a more conducive business environment.

Is it possible to increase the number of Nepali workers under the EPS system?

Nepali workers who have participated in the EPS have made significant contributions to South Korea’s industrial sector and overall economy. Remittances sent back home by these workers have also benefited Nepal and its citizens. Workers from 16 countries are benefiting from EPS. An estimated 90,000 is expected to head to South Korea this year through EPS. South Korea has specifically demanded 15,000 workers from Nepal. Since employers also prefer Nepali workers, they have placed more demands. Currently, over 14,000 Nepalis have already left for South Korea, and it is estimated that more than 20,000 workers will go to South Korea through EPS this year. Among 16 countries, Nepa is the largest contributor of workers to South Korea through EPS this year.

How long will the EPS program continue?

There have been concerns regarding the potential closure of the EPS system. However, due to the ongoing insufficiency of workers in South Korea, the demand for Nepali workers continues to increase steadily. I firmly believe that the EPS program will continue to thrive for a significant period. Workers who participate in this program receive salaries on par with Korean citizens, earning more than Rs 200,000 per month. Notably, Nepali workers have not only earned income but have also acquired valuable skills during their time in South Korea. These skills will play a pivotal role in shaping Nepal’s future. Soon after my arrival in Nepal, I came across a news article highlighting the success story of a returnee from South Korea who was creating jobs by opening an industry in Nepal. Such inspiring examples are on the rise, demonstrating that Nepal is steadily moving closer to prosperity.

How can the skills learned in Korea be utilized in Nepal?

In collaboration with the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), we have initiated a reintegration program to support returning workers in starting businesses and providing vocational education. Through this program, returnee workers learn how to invest. The success of this initiative will lead to the opening of more industries and the creation of additional job opportunities. It is crucial for media outlets, including Annapurna Media Group, to work for harnessing the skills and investments of these returnee workers.

Rajendra Shalabh, 65, is a Nepali poet who is originally from Jhapa. He has released three poem collections: ‘Ujyalo Ko Sarta’, ‘Kavita Ko Rang’ and ‘Ujale Ke Sang’. He retired as a professor at the Nepal Law Campus two years back, and now is engaged with ‘Aksharang’, an online literary magazine. Babita Shrestha from ApEx caught up with Shalabh to know more about his attachment with poetry. 

Could you please share about your journey as a poet and a moment that ignited your passion for poetry?

From a very young age, reading and writing were two of my main interests. My family owned a printing press business in Jhapa. During that time, renowned newspapers were published through our press. My father was a journalist and as a result, I got to learn from several editors and writers who were very close to my father. I consider myself privileged to have had direct assistance in writing from professionals. With that, writing became more appealing to me. I’ve been writing since I was in school. Even after enrolling in law school, I continued to participate in various platforms that required me to write poems. I published my first book ‘Ujyalo Ko Sarta’ in 2008 and released an audiobook ‘Aafno Kavita Aafnai Aawaj’ the same year. Then, I released my other book ‘Kavita ko Rang’ in 2016. Just about two years ago, my friend and I collaborated on a Hindi translation of our work called ‘Ujale Ke Sang’. 

Since you were a law student, what deviated you to become a poet?

I’ll be very honest here, I didn't want to start law school then. My parents forced me into it. However, I was still engaged in literature and theater even after starting law school. Writing poems meant everything to me. It gave me satisfaction. So it’s safe to say that my enthusiasm and passion for poetry has made me the poet I am now.

What does poetry mean to you personally?

Poetry is a literary form that can be simple or complicated. It is one of the most read genres in literature. For me, it’s a reflection of society, and every poem written has a human sensibility at its core, regardless of what the subject matter is. 

How do you approach your writing, from initial inspiration to finalizing a piece? 

I don’t have a particular model, but whenever a topic comes to mind, I automatically have the urge to write. Unlike most authors, I do not go back and revise my work because I always write from the heart and with all of my feelings. But when I read it back, my mind gets in the way of making small alterations which makes that piece a mess. So, I always finish with the first draft. While writing, I tend to write from the heart rather than focus on the technicalities.

Is there a specific theme you work on?

Although I typically avoid composing political poetry, there may be times when it does arise while partially addressing societal topics. If I must be specific, I tend to write on issues related to human emotions, relationships, life, and general topics.

Are there any poets or writers who have influenced your style and approach to poetry? 

There are several. I think Bhupi Sherchan and Gopal Prasad Rimal are two of the great poets who have inspired not just me, but many contemporary writers. These authors use a relatively straightforward writing style and simple diction which makes it easier for readers to grasp what the writing is trying to say. I do not believe poetry needs to be difficult and filled with heavy words.

What do you consider the greatest achievement of being a poet?

For an interview, I recently went to one of the events. I was requested to read one of my poems called ‘Aama’ by the host. After I finished my recitation, she told me that her grandmother heard me recite it, took down every word and read it to her later because she liked it so much. Hearing this made me feel quite accomplished. It showed that I am able to connect with peoples’ emotions through my writing. 

Also back then, I worked as a station manager for a radio station. ‘Kura Tapaiko Sabda Mera’ was a show I used to host. On the program I used to hear stories from people, and later I delivered their stories in the form of a poem. What I’m trying to say is, I consider myself to be a content and successful poet because of my ability to convey stories of other people through my poetry .

Shalabh’s picks:

Ghumne Mech Mathi Andho Manche by Bhupi Sherchan

It is a Nepali poem collection which was awarded Sajha Puraskar in 1969.

Aama Ko Sapana by Gopal Prasad Rimal

It is a Nepali poetry published by Sajha Prakashan which won Madan Puraskar in 1962.